Changing Your Final Destination

Photo credit: iemoji.com

So this whole time I have been laying out the steps to figuring out YOUR final destination. I have given you tons of information on how to prepare yourself to become a successful occupational therapy student, while I have tried to accomplish them myself. So I really have been taking my own advice and passing it along to you, my readers.

While on this journey, I have really been soul searching. I am in my first semester of graduate school and I’m supposed to have everything together, or at least have somewhat of an idea, right? Well, in my Leadership class the professor really makes us dig deep and find our true potential. She gives us the tools to really pinpoint our skills, figure out what we want to do with our life, and how to overcome obstacles. While taking this class and writing assignments about occupational therapy, I have realized a variety of things. One thing I have realized is that the more I research and the more I learn about occupational therapy, the more I realize that this isn’t what I want to do with my life, which is heartbreaking. I’ve wanted to help others my whole life; how could I not want to do this anymore and be so quick to change my mind? I have convinced myself for over a year that I belong in the occupational therapy field, and for all of the wrong reasons. Another thing I have realized is that where I am now is definitely where I want to be.. For those who don’t know, I am a graduate assistant at a recreational center at Tarleton State University for competitive sports. I LOVE IT. I adore the people I work with, I love the atmosphere, and I feel SO accomplished at the end of every work day. So all in all, as long as I’m happy, that’s what counts right?

At first, I thought that maybe I was afraid of being uncomfortable. There were just things that come with being an occupational therapist, and I couldn’t bring myself to do them. I am very comfortable with where I am now, and didn’t want to possibly believe that I was making this life changing decision because I was a coward. Of course after much thought, I decided that this is what’s best for me. Being in the campus recreation profession is where I belong and I am certain that I won’t turn back. I feel such a sense of relief that I have come to this decision and know that this will make me the happiest in the long run.

So, for all of my occupational therapy readers, find yourself a great OT blog! There are many out there that are remarkable. OT Potential has great blogs that will help you develop and grow as an occupational therapy student. Also, keep reading OT journals. My favorite OT journal that I’ve been using countless times since starting my occupational therapy journey is AOTA (American Occupational Therapy Association). Read the journals, you won’t regret it!

Photo credit: storychick.com

With all of this being said, know that it is perfectly fine to change your final destination. You’re allowed to change your mind and I’m very glad that I changed mine to Campus Recreation. Be confident in yourself and follow your heart. Whichever destination you choose, make sure it is something you enjoy doing every day. I have changed my destination, and that is Campus Recreation.

References:

Lyon, Sarah, (2015). OT Potential.

https://otpotential.com

The American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc., (1917). AOTA Journal.

http://www.aota.org